PRTD

A Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) is a document that Canadian permanent residents can use to re-enter Canada if they do not have a valid Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) or if they are not carrying it when traveling back to Canada. Essentially, it serves as a temporary replacement for a PR Card for entry into Canada.

Here's how it works:

• Eligibility: To be eligible for a PRTD, you must be a permanent resident of Canada who is outside Canada and does not have a valid PR Card to return to Canada. You must also meet the residency obligations of Canadian permanent residents, meaning you must have been physically present in Canada for at least 730 days in the last five years, unless there are exceptional circumstances that have prevented this.
• Application: The application for a PRTD must be submitted to a Canadian visa office abroad. The process involves filling out an application form and providing supporting documents, including proof of permanent resident status in Canada, identity documents, and evidence of meeting residency obligations.
• Use: A PRTD is typically issued for one single entry back into Canada. Once you are back in Canada, you should apply for a new PR Card if yours is expired or if you didn’t have one. The PRTD allows you to prove your status and re-enter Canada to continue your permanent residence.
• Processing Time: The processing time for a PRTD can vary based on the visa office and the specific circumstances of the applicant. It's advisable to apply for a PRTD well in advance of your intended travel date if possible.

Remember, while the PRTD allows you to re-enter Canada, maintaining your permanent resident status requires meeting certain residency obligations. If you're outside Canada for extended periods, it's crucial to keep track of your days in and out of the country to ensure you meet these requirements.